Image Source: Sumant Kumar
About Bannerghatta Biological Park
The Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP), popularly known as the Bannerghatta Zoo, is one of Bengaluru’s most prominent wildlife and ecological destinations. Officially renamed Bengaluru Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBBP) for ease of recognition, the park plays a dual role as a conservation hub and a recreation space. Spread across 731.88 hectares (1,808.5 acres) in the Anekal Taluk of Bangalore Urban District, it lies just 25 km from Vidhana Soudha, making it an easily accessible weekend retreat.
History
The roots of the park trace back to 1971, when a picnic corner was created by Shri Y.M.L Sharma, then Chief Conservator of Forests. By 1974, the region was formally declared as Bannerghatta National Park, aimed at conserving flora and fauna.
Key milestones in its growth include:
1979: Launch of the Lion Safari.
1987: Establishment of the Tiger Safari.
2000: Creation of the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre with support from the Central Zoo Authority.
2002: Formal bifurcation of the National Park and Biological Park, bringing the zoo, safari units, and rescue facilities under the Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK). It provide a more organised framework for wildlife care and visitor engagement. Today, BBP serves as a major destination for nature lovers, researchers, and families seeking to experience biodiversity up close.
2007: Inauguration of India’s first Butterfly Park within the campus.
Key Sections and Attractions
The Zoo
Established in 1971 on 16 hectares, later expanded to cover 44 hectares.
Home to 1,941 individual animals representing 94 species, including Himalayan black bear, Thamin deer, King Cobra, panthers, crocodiles, and hog deer.
Also features a museum and an auditorium for educational exhibits.
The Safari Experience
Among the most popular features of BBP, the safari allows visitors to explore open enclosures in secure vehicles. It is jointly managed by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) and the BBP.
Herbivore Safari: Opened in 2002, featuring gaur, blackbuck, sambar, and chital, supported by waterbodies and natural barriers.
Bear Safari: Houses nearly 100 rescued sloth bears, many saved from captivity with Kalandars.
Lion Safari: Launched in 1979, covering 5 hectares, with 11 holding rooms and protected enclosures.
Tiger Safari: Introduced in 1987, featuring Royal Bengal Tigers and white tigers in well-designed complexes.
(Note: The safari was briefly closed in 2013 due to an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease among herbivores.
Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre
Established in 2000, covering 17.5 hectares.
Functions as a rescue home for orphaned, injured, or confiscated wild animals in compliance with the National Zoo Policy 1998.
This facility is strictly off-limits to visitors to ensure animal welfare.
The Butterfly Park
Opened in 2006, it is India’s first butterfly enclosure.
Spread across 7.5 acres, with a 10,000 sq ft conservatory featuring an artificial waterfall and tropical plants.
Designed to house more than 20 species of butterflies, along with a museum and an audiovisual centre.
Animal Adoption Program
The Animal Adoption Scheme allows individuals and organizations to contribute towards feeding and caring for animals. Categories are divided based on annual expenses:
Diamond Class: Elephant (₹3,00,000), Tiger (₹2,00,000), Hippopotamus (₹1,50,000).
Gold Class: Leopard, Sloth Bear, Gaur (₹50,000–₹20,000).
Silver Class: Deer, Jungle Cat, Hornbill (₹15,000–₹10,000).
This initiative, along with CSR support, meets 5–10% of the zoo’s annual feed cost, generating about ₹2.5 million annually.
Coping with Challenges
The pandemic had a major impact, reducing visitors from 1.64 million in 2019–20 to just 0.55 million in 2020–21. To adapt, the park:
Closed on weekends (in addition to its usual Tuesday holiday).
Grew local fodder and fruits, carried out sustainable fishing, and engaged veterinary interns.
These measures saved approximately ₹2 crore in expenses.
Visitor Experience
In normal years, the park attracts over 1.6 million visitors annually. With its combination of zoos, safaris, butterfly park, and educational facilities, BBP offers a rare chance to experience wildlife and biodiversity within city limits. Its location close to Bengaluru makes it a must-visit for families, students, and eco-tourists alike.
How to Reach
Located about 22–25 km south of central Bengaluru, Bannerghatta Biological Park is one of Karnataka’s most popular wildlife destinations, known for its safari, zoo, butterfly park, and rescue center. The park is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM and remains closed on Tuesdays. Safari operations generally run between 10:00 AM and 4:30 PM.
By Road
The park lies on Bannerghatta Road and is easily accessible by private vehicle, taxi, or app-based cabs from most parts of Bengaluru. The drive from the city center typically takes 45–90 minutes depending on traffic.
By Bus
BMTC buses connect the park with major areas of Bengaluru. Popular routes include:
- Bus No. 365 from Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic).
- Bus No. 366 from City Market.
- Bus No. 368 from Shivajinagar.
- G-4 from Brigade Road and nearby localities.
By Train
The nearest major railway station is Bengaluru City Railway Station, approximately 25–28 km away. From there, visitors can take a taxi or BMTC bus to reach the park.
By Air
The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, located about 55–60 km away. Taxis and airport cabs are readily available.
Nearby Attractions
- Bannerghatta National Park – A vast protected forest area famous for wildlife conservation, trekking trails, and elephant corridors.
- Butterfly Park – India’s first butterfly park featuring a conservatory, museum, and audiovisual exhibits.
- Bannerghatta Nature Camp – Operated by Jungle Lodges, offering nature stays and eco-tourism experiences near the park.
- Meenakshi Temple – A beautiful Dravidian-style temple located on Bannerghatta Road, ideal for a spiritual stop on the way back.
- Turahalli Forest – Popular for short hikes, cycling, and sunrise views.
Additional Information:
Butterfly Park Entry Fee: Adults: Rs. 80, Children: Rs. 40; Senior . Citizens: Rs. 40
Safari and Park Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Grand Safari Fee: Rs. 260 for Adults, Rs. 130 for Children, and Rs. 400 for foreigners
Boating Fee: Rs. 60 per head
Maps and Location
Location: Approximately 23 km from Bangalore City Railway Station, Bannerghatta National Park sprawls across the Anekal Range in Karnataka.
FAQs
1. What are the timings of Bannerghatta Biological Park?
The zoo and butterfly park are open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, while safari rides usually operate from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The park is closed every Tuesday.
2. How much time is needed to explore the park?
A complete visit including the safari, zoo, and butterfly park generally takes 3–5 hours.
3. What are the main attractions inside the park?
The major highlights include the Lion Safari, Tiger Safari, Bear Safari, Butterfly Park, zoo, boating facilities, and rescue center.
4. Is online ticket booking available?
Yes, visitors can purchase tickets online through the park’s official website. Ticket tariffs and safari options are updated regularly.
5. Is food allowed inside the park?
Plastic items are restricted, and carrying food is generally discouraged as it may attract animals.
6. What is the best time to visit?
The best months are October to February, when the weather is pleasant and animals tend to be more active.
7. Is Bannerghatta suitable for children?
Absolutely. The safari, butterfly park, and zoo make it one of Bengaluru’s most family-friendly attractions. Visitors typically spend an entire day here.
